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Spicy Sweet Potato and Peanut Soup with Black Beans

Peanuts and dried red chilies make a striking complement to orange-colored winter vegetables, and after the success of a spicy peanut pumpkin soup I decided to return to the theme with sweet potato. Peanut butter is used instead of whole peanuts this time around to form a creamy base to a chunky bean and vegetable soup that will warm, nourish and delight you and your guests. Be sure to use an unsweetened natural peanut butter.

Rinse the beans and soak overnight covered in several inches of cold water with a little yogurt whey or lemon juice added. Drain and rinse, then transfer to a medium saucepan and cover with several inches of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside.

Heat a large saucepan or soup pot over medium heat. When hot, add the olive oil, wait a few moments, then swirl around to coat the pan Add the carrot, onion and garlic and sauté until the onions turn translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes. Turn up the heat slightly and toss in the sweet potato and chili flakes. Stir for a couple of minutes, then add the tomato and cook until the tomato has reduced slightly, about 5 minutes. Pour in the vegetable stock and water and bring to a slow boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Stir in the peanut butter and beans and let simmer for another 5 minutes to let the peanut butter melt into the soup and to warm the beans. Remove from heat and season with salt and plenty of fresh ground black pepper.

I made this soup for a superbowl party - it was a big hit! I served it with an option of some sour cream on top to cut the spiciness if people weren't into that - any other suggestions for toppings to reduce heat?

Based in London, Ontario, a veteran vegetarian for 23 years serves up a collection of delicious culinary creations from her kitchen, with an emphasis on spicy Indian dishes and whole foods. If you want to know what sensible vegetarians eat, Lisa's Kitchen is the place to be.